Claremont, Calif. — Jan. 22, 2024 —Pitzer closed 2023 with a record-setting Season of Giving campaign that far exceeded previous years and marked a major milestone in Pitzer’s recent fundraising history.
Propelled by the support of many alumni and families, along with several special challenges, Pitzer netted more than $1.1 million during the campaign, which started with Giving Tuesday on Nov. 28 and ran through Dec. 31.
Last year, the Season of Giving campaign raised about $500,000. This year’s total not only doubled that amount, it also surged past its goal of enlisting 625 donors to reaching 718 donors this year, an increase of more than 114%.
The Pitzer Advancement team attributed success to a significant number of alumni and families who responded to appeals and contributed during the month-long campaign. About 44% of Pitzer alumni and 33% of current families gave gifts in support of the campaign.
Another decisive factor in the campaign’s success was the use of several special challenges that incentivized the Pitzer community to participate.
These included the President’s Challenge, which was sponsored by Strom and Isabelle Thacker and promised a gift of $10,000 when 500 donors contributed to the campaign (that goal was reached). Another challenge organized by the Board of Trustees resulted in the unlocking of an additional $157,000.
Other successful challenges that unlocked gifts were sponsored by the Alumni Board, Family Leadership Council, John and Janie Barman P’20, P’27, and Lupe and Alvaro Cardenas P’25.
“A culture of philanthropy is vital to any school’s fundraising efforts,” said Shannon Spaccarotelli, senior director for alumni and family engagement and annual giving. “Our success this year is a strong sign that such a culture is thriving and growing in our community.”
Gifts raised during Pitzer’s 2023 Season of Giving will be used to help current and future students in three areas: scholarships, internship support, and support in the areas of greatest need.
